Derbyshire 'explosion': Married couple confirmed dead after fire that destroyed house

Two people have been confirmed dead after a house in Derbyshire “exploded” early this morning.

They are believed to have been a married couple who lived in the house, in Valley View Road, Riddings.

Neighbours spoke of being awoken by a “loud bang” at about 7.30am. Fire crews found the property “well alight” when they arrived.

“The bodies of a man and a woman were found in the bedroom of the house by fire investigators who searched the building when the fire was extinguished and the house was made safe,” Derbyshire Constabulary said this afternoon in a statement.

“Their families have been informed. At this stage there are not believed to be any suspicious circumstances surrounding the fire but investigations are at an early stage.”

Devastation: Most of the roof has been destroyed by the blaze Jack Gaucher/Twitter

The force’s Ch Insp Steve Pont added: “This is an awful tragedy. Our thoughts are with the family and friends of the two people who have lost their lives.”